Focuses on the government proposal to shift most home-health care spending from Medicare's hospital trust fund. Features of the proposal; Reaction by Republican Party leaders to the proposal; Reason for the proposal; Comment by Medicare Trustee Marilyn Moon; Benefits of the move.

Reports on the pre-testing of the Medicare Provider Partnership Demonstration project designed by US Health Care Financing Administration to physicians and hospitals. Mechanics of the project; Steps concerning Medicare reimbursements; Limitations of the project.

Reports on the decision of U.S. congressmen to give priority to medicare prescription drug benefits in their health agenda for the year 2003. Control of health care by patients and physicians; Brief information about reforms for health insurers.

Describes the cost to the elderly, of new catastrophic medical benefits, recently included in Medicare. Increase in monthly premiums; Range of benefits; Services not covered; How to correct the problem. INSET: Long-term reform..

Reports on the debate whether to change the way Medicare pays for medical care services. Optional vouchers system as a major proposal for redesigning Medicare; Advantages of vouchers; Disadvantages of vouchers; Argument for a wholesale redesign of Medicare.

Presents information on Medicare benefits in the United States. Details on reimbursement rules in the United States; Rate of growth for Medicare; Details on Medicare benefits for middle-aged people in the US.